In a remarkable turn of events, Prime Minister Narendra Modi reached out to Rekha Patra, a woman from West Bengal’s Sandeshkhali region. Patra, who has been at the forefront of women’s protests against suspended Trinamool Congress leader Sheikh Shahjahan, is now the Bharatiya Janata Party’s (BJP) candidate for the Basirhat Lok Sabha seat.
A Voice of Resilience
Rekha Patra, a survivor of the Sandeshkhali incident, spoke candidly about her experiences. In an audio clip of their conversation, Prime Minister Modi lauded her as “Shakti Swaroopa” (goddess-like) and acknowledged the challenges she faces. “Your hands are on my head and all the women of Sandeshkhali. It is like we are blessed by Lord Ram,” Patra responded.
The Ordeal and the Fight for Justice
Patra recounted the tragedy that befell the women of Sandeshkhali. The area witnessed illegal land grabs and sexual assaults allegedly perpetrated by Sheikh Shahjahan and his henchmen. “We demand action against the accused,” Patra asserted. She also highlighted a critical issue: the denial of voting rights for women in Basirhat since 2011. “We hope to vote this time,” she added.
PM Modi’s Assurance
Prime Minister Modi assured Patra of cooperation from the Election Commission of India and proper security arrangements for the upcoming elections. His call has further emboldened Patra and other women in their fight for justice and empowerment.
